Fortis Tundra Salopette DPM

How well is it built?

The outer is a 150 grams per square metre Triflex fabric in a two-layer build, with four-way stretch and fully taped seams, and the Primaloft insulation sits behind it.

That's a sensible layout for a winter salopette, because the shell keeps the weather out while the insulation does the warming.

The hardware is quality throughout. The front closes with a two-way YKK Vislon zip under an external storm flap, the boot zips are YKK too, and the elasticated suspenders fasten with YKK buckles. Velcro adjusts the hems.

These are the parts that usually fail first on cheaper bib and braces, so it's reassuring that all of them are YKK.

Reinforcement is the one thing holding the build back from a higher score. The Preston Innovations DF Ultra 25K Bib & Brace adds reinforced panels at the knees and seat, which carp anglers kneeling on mats will value.

For an insulated winter salopette, though, I think the build is excellent.

Weather Protection

A hydrostatic head of over 25,000mm is very high for fishing clothing, and it's well beyond what you need for a day of heavy rain or hours kneeling on a soaked bank.

The outer is windproof too, which matters as much as waterproofing on an exposed reservoir bank or an open gravel pit in January, when a cold wind can strip the heat from your legs in minutes.

Breathability is the standout figure.

Insulated salopettes usually trade some breathability for warmth, but this one lets more than 25,000 grams of moisture per square metre escape and wicks away the moisture you generate when you're active, so it shouldn't turn clammy on the barrow push to your swim and then leave you chilled once you sit down.

Fully taped seams and the storm flap over the front zip close off the weak points where cold rain usually finds a way in. For me, it's about as complete as winter weather protection gets, and the 9.5 is earned.

Comfort & Fit Rating

So, how warm is it? The 200 grams per square metre Primaloft insulation is made with recycled content, and the salopettes are rated for warmth down to -15°C, which covers pretty much any night a UK angler is likely to face.

The high bib and back keep the small of your back covered when you bend over the net or lean forward off a bedchair.

The classic relaxed fit leaves room for winter layers, and the four-way stretch should stop the insulation from feeling restrictive when you crouch.

Adjustable elasticated suspenders take up the slack, YKK boot zips let you pull them on over boots, and Velcro hems close around your footwear. Two handwarmer pockets are a welcome bonus at three in the morning.

Sizes run from S with a 30in waist to XXXL with a 40in waist, so bigger anglers should look at the Nash ZT Helluva Waterproof Bib and Brace Camo, which goes up to a 52in waist.

Is it good value for money?

Is it worth the money? It's one of the dearer bib and braces, costing a bit more than the Preston Innovations DF Ultra 25K Bib & Brace, and that's why value is 8.5 rather than higher, although the gap isn't big.

Look at what it brings, though.

You get a waterproof, windproof shell with breathability far beyond the Preston's 5,000 grams per square metre, plus 200 grams per square metre of Primaloft built in, so you should need fewer layers underneath on cold nights, and it may save you buying separate thermal trousers.

I think that combination justifies the extra over an uninsulated bib and brace if you fish through the winter.

If you want something for summer and mild autumn days, a lighter bib will suit you better. For winter, I'd recommend the Tundra Salopette DPM to carp anglers on overnighters, predator anglers sitting it out for pike and anyone who fishes long, static sessions in the cold.